Whether you’re gearing up for a big fall cleaning session or you’re just trying to maintain your home’s fresh appearance, chances are you’ll use some sort of household cleaners. And, if you have pets, it’s important to be careful about which cleaners you use and how you use them.
Here’s what you need to know about keeping your pets safe around household cleaners:
Ingredients to Watch Out for
There are a wide variety of household cleaners out there, ranging from industrial-grade solutions to those marked “non-toxic.” But because there are so many, and because substances affect dogs and cats differently than they do humans, it can be difficult to figure out just what you should and shouldn’t use.
Some ingredients or cleaners to be careful of around your pets include:
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Bleach, especially chlorine bleach
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Chemical compounds containing “phenol”
- Ammonia
- Glycol ethers, often found in paints, some solvents, and cleaning products
- Formaldehyde
While it may be best to avoid these substances altogether, you don’t have to fully avoid them. Just use caution when cleaning with them around your pets.
Clean Safely With Pets Around
If you plan to use any of the above products, or even if you’re using other household cleaners, it’s important to take steps to protect your pets while you’re cleaning.
Here are some precautions to take to keep your pets safe:
- Keep pets out of the room you’re cleaning. If necessary, put them outdoors, in a crate, or in a separate room.
- Make sure the area you’re cleaning is well ventilated. If possible, open windows.
- Don’t leave cleaning products unattended. Put them away as soon as you’re done using them.
- Make sure everything, floors especially, is fully dry before letting your pet back into the room. They could easily get cleaner residue on their paws that then gets ingested when they clean themselves.
Proper Storage Is Key
Properly storing your cleaning supplies, no matter what they are, is key to keeping your pets safe. Inquisitive critters can easily knock over bottles or chew on cleaning wipes that are left unsecured.
If you’re storing your cleaners under a sink, consider getting a childproof lock so your pet can’t pull the door open and climb inside. Better yet, keep them outside or in a box with a tight lid.
Should you suspect your pet has ingested a cleaner, call animal poison control immediately at (888) 426-4435. You also can call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
Experienced Veterinarian in Frederick, MD
Your pet’s health and safety is important. At Old Farm Vet Hospital, our wellness exams keep tabs on your pet’s general health and welfare so you can head off medical emergencies. Schedule your appointment today!
